Masterhøj Udsigtspost
Bronze Age mound commanding 360-degree views of Roskilde, fjord, and medieval heritage.
Masterhøj is a Bronze Age burial mound offering panoramic 360-degree views over Roskilde, its fjord, and surrounding landscapes. Perched on the edge of the Roskilde Fjord valley, this ancient monument provides visitors with sweeping vistas of the city's medieval cathedral, historic harbor, forests, and waterways. The site is ideal for cyclists and walkers seeking a brief stop to absorb the region's geography and history in one commanding viewpoint.
A brief summary to Masterhøj udsigtspost
- Roskilde, 4000, DK
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during clear weather to maximize visibility across the fjord and toward Copenhagen on the horizon. Early morning or late afternoon light enhances the landscape's contours and colors.
- Bring binoculars to identify distant landmarks including Roskilde Cathedral's spire, the harbor, and bird-rich wetlands. A map or guidebook helps orient the panoramic views.
- Combine your visit with cycling or walking routes through Himmelev Forest and along the fjord's edge to experience Roskilde's broader landscape network.
- Pack refreshments if planning a longer pause; the mound offers no facilities, but the open setting is ideal for a quiet picnic while absorbing the views.
- Access the site via the worn footpath from Store Valbyvej along a living hedge; the approach is straightforward but unmarked, so allow extra time if unfamiliar with the route.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bicycle from Roskilde city center
From central Roskilde, follow cycling routes northeastward toward Store Valbyvej, approximately 4–5 kilometers. Travel time is 15–20 minutes depending on route and fitness level. Access Masterhøj via the worn footpath from Store Valbyvej along a living hedge on the western side of the road. No parking fee required; bicycle parking is informal at the trailhead.
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Walking from Himmelev Forest or Himmelev village
From Himmelev village or the Comwell hotel area, walk through or around Himmelev Forest toward Store Valbyvej, approximately 2–3 kilometers. Walking time is 30–45 minutes. Access Masterhøj via the footpath from Store Valbyvej. Terrain is mostly level forest paths and field edges; suitable for most fitness levels.
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Car from Roskilde city center
Drive northeast from central Roskilde via Østre Ringvej, then turn onto the small road toward Store Valby. Masterhøj appears on the left side after approximately 4–5 kilometers; travel time is 10–12 minutes. Limited informal parking exists near the trailhead on Store Valbyvej; no designated parking lot. The site is free to access.
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Public bus and walking combination
Take a local bus toward the Risø or Veddelev area from central Roskilde (approximately 20–30 minutes depending on service). From the nearest bus stop, walk to Store Valbyvej and access Masterhøj via the footpath (10–15 minutes walking). Check local timetables for current routes and frequencies; no entrance fee required.
Masterhøj udsigtspost location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Any Weather
Discover more about Masterhøj udsigtspost
A Vantage Point Across Time and Terrain
From the summit of Masterhøj, the entire city of Roskilde unfolds beneath you, framed by the waters of Roskilde Fjord and the forested valleys beyond. This ancient burial mound, dating to the Bronze Age, sits strategically on the rim of a vast flooded valley system, offering one of the region's most instructive panoramic viewpoints. The vista is not merely beautiful—it is deeply educational, revealing how Roskilde's urban fabric interweaves with its natural landscape and how the fjord has functioned as a vital transportation corridor throughout history.Layers of Historical Significance
The mound's name, Masterhøj, derives from a military signal post that once stood nearby in more recent times, yet the site's true significance stretches back millennia. This Bronze Age monument stands as a silent witness to Denmark's prehistoric past, while the views it commands encompass centuries of human settlement and activity. From this elevated position, visitors can trace the arc of Roskilde's development from Viking trading center to medieval royal and ecclesiastical seat, with the soaring spire of Roskilde Cathedral—a UNESCO World Heritage monument—dominating the southern prospect.A Compass of Landmarks and Landscapes
Looking south, three churches appear nearly in alignment, with Roskilde Cathedral commanding the view as the region's most prominent structure. The city sprawls in the foreground with the suburb of Himmelev visible beyond. Westward, the harbor comes into view alongside the protected grounds of Sankt Hans Hospital and the nature reserves extending toward Boserup and Bognæs. To the northeast, the undivided village of Veddelev emerges, with glimpses of Risø and its experimental wind turbines, along with the bird-rich waters of Bløden Bay. On clear days, Copenhagen itself appears on the distant horizon, anchoring the broader regional geography.Gateway to Roskilde's Green Ring
Masterhøj functions as an ideal orientation point for exploring Roskilde's network of natural areas and recreational routes. The site marks a natural pause along cycling routes from the northeast, particularly along Store Valbyvej, and serves as a junction for walking routes through the adjacent Himmelev Forest. The mound's accessibility via a worn footpath from Store Valbyvej makes it an effortless detour for travelers approaching Roskilde by bicycle or on foot. Its position within the broader landscape of protected forests, meadows, and waterfront areas underscores its role as a gateway to understanding the region's ecological and historical character.Sensory and Contemplative Experience
The 360-degree vista from Masterhøj engages multiple dimensions of understanding: the geological perspective reveals the dramatic topography of the fjord valley; the historical lens illuminates centuries of settlement and trade; the ecological view showcases forests, wetlands, and bird habitats; and the human dimension connects past and present through visible monuments and living communities. Visitors often pause here to absorb the landscape's complexity, whether during a cycling journey or a dedicated walking excursion. The site's openness to the elements and its commanding elevation create a contemplative atmosphere where the relationship between city, fjord, and hinterland becomes viscerally apparent.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Masterhøj udsigtspost
0.0 km
Bronze Age mound commanding 360-degree views of Roskilde, fjord, and medieval heritage.
Det Kongelige Palæ i Roskilde
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Stendysser
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Unmissable attractions to see
Vigen Strandpark
2.2 km
Calm fjord waters, a sandy strand and wide views to Roskilde’s skyline make Vigen Strandpark a relaxed, easy-going escape for swimming, paddling and picnics.
Viking Ship Museum
2.7 km
Stand face to face with 1,000-year-old Viking ships, then step outside to see their full-scale descendants being built and sailed on Roskilde Fjord.
Roskilde Harbour
2.8 km
Historic fjordside harbour where Viking heritage, a modern marina and relaxed waterfront life meet beneath the towers of Roskilde Cathedral.
MC og Bil træf
2.8 km
Sommeraftener med motorbrøl, krom og uformel bilkultur på et åbent areal i Roskilde, hvor bil- og MC-entusiaster samles til hyggeligt torsdagstræf.
Sct Ibs Kilde
2.8 km
A humble historic spring at Roskilde’s shoreline, Sct. Ibs Kilde links everyday water, medieval faith and the rise of a cathedral city above the fjord.
Frøspringvandet
2.9 km
A modest bronze frog fountain in Roskilde’s Klosterengen park, where playful sculpture, splashing water and everyday neighbourhood life meet in a tranquil corner.
Roskilde Mini Town
2.9 km
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Lovise Kilden
3.0 km
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Sct Gertruds Kilde
3.0 km
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RoS Gallery
3.0 km
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Puppe
3.0 km
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Byparkens Legeplads
3.0 km
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Klosterkilden
3.1 km
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Roskilde Museum
3.3 km
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Sct Hans Kilde
3.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant Vigen
2.1 km
Waterfront Danish dining on Roskilde Fjord, where smørrebrød lunches and sunset dinners share the stage with sweeping views towards Roskilde’s historic skyline.
M/S Sagafjord - Restaurant Roskilde
2.8 km
Classic restaurant ship gliding across Roskilde Fjord, pairing seasonal local cuisine with slow, scenic cruises from the harbour’s edge.
Café Fjordliv
2.8 km
Harbourfront Nordic–French café in Roskilde with its own sourdough bakery, organic coffee and seasonal small plates served beside the calm waters of the fjord.
Snekken Trattoria
2.9 km
Waterfront Italian-inspired dining on Roskilde Harbour, pairing fjord views and a large terrace with relaxed brasserie dishes, brunch and all‑day service.
Restaurant Flammen - Roskilde Ro's Torv
3.0 km
Big-hearted grill buffet in Roskilde’s Ro’s Torv, serving abundant meats, hot dishes and a vast salad bar in a cosy, rustic setting ideal for families and groups.
Restaurant Store Børs
3.0 km
Seasonal Danish gourmet dining overlooking Roskilde Fjord, where ingredient quality and informal elegance meet.
LA RUSTICA - ROSKILDE
3.0 km
Bright, casual Italian dining above the shops at Ro’s Torv, serving pizzas, pastas, brunch plates and espresso in a relaxed, modern café‑style setting.
Zhiki Sushi
3.0 km
Casual, family‑run sushi inside Ro’s Torv, serving colorful rolls, all‑you‑can‑eat menus and easy takeaway for shoppers, families and locals in Roskilde.
Pipers Hus
3.0 km
Classic Danish comfort food in a park pavilion with sweeping views over Roskilde Bypark, the harbour and fjord, blending city dining with a touch of nature.
Viking Pizza Roskilde
3.0 km
Hearty pizzas and grill classics near Roskilde’s Viking harbour, serving no‑nonsense comfort food for families, locals and museum‑goers from late morning to evening.
Nira Sushi
3.2 km
Relaxed neighbourhood sushi spot in Roskilde serving fresh rolls, generous platters and Japanese-inspired favourites in a modern, low-key setting.
Bone's Roskilde
3.3 km
Legendary Danish BBQ steakhouse serving signature spareribs, premium burgers, and all-you-can-eat salad since 1990.
Røde Port Bistro
3.3 km
Cosy central Roskilde bistro where house-brewed beer, classic Danish comfort food and live music come together under one laid-back, brick-and-wood roof.
Det Mexicanske Bøfhus
3.3 km
Hearty Mexican‑inspired steaks and sizzling Tex‑Mex platters in a cozy, central Roskilde steakhouse on lively Algade.
Royal Indian - Roskilde
3.3 km
Cosy North Indian restaurant on Roskilde’s Algade, serving richly spiced curries, tandoori grills and plentiful vegetarian options in a warm, modern setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bonde Boutique
2.9 km
A long-standing Danish womenswear boutique inside Roskilde’s Ro’s Torv mall, blending classic Scandinavian style, modern brands and easy indoor shopping comfort.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
2.9 km
Affordable Scandinavian design meets playful discovery in Roskilde's premier gift and lifestyle destination.
RO's Torv
2.9 km
Modern, glass-fronted shopping hub in Roskilde with Danish design, high-street brands, cafés and cinema gathered in one weather-proof urban marketplace.
Red Cross Op Shop
3.2 km
Volunteer-run Red Cross thrift shop in central Roskilde, where affordable second-hand finds and everyday browsing quietly support humanitarian work.
Borch Copenhagen
3.3 km
A cosy Scandinavian yarn and design shop on Roskilde’s main street, where curated fibres, colours and patterns turn knitting and crochet ideas into tangible projects.
Devotuz
3.3 km
Compact clothing boutique on Roskilde’s Algade, offering practical, contemporary fashion in the heart of the historic town’s main shopping street.
Zander
3.3 km
Refined menswear boutique on Roskilde’s main shopping street, offering quality Scandinavian-style clothing and personal service in an intimate setting.
No 1 Butik
3.3 km
Intimate Roskilde lifestyle boutique blending Nordic design, playful gifts and gourmet treats into one cozy, carefully curated shopping stop.
Kelz0r (Roskilde)
3.3 km
Compact but densely stocked, Kelz0r Roskilde is a friendly fantasy and trading card hub on Algade, where shelves, play tables and events keep local gamers coming back.
Zizzi - Roskilde
3.3 km
Contemporary plus-size fashion on Roskilde’s main shopping street, offering curve-friendly styles, seasonal collections and relaxed, confidence-focused service.
Femilet
3.3 km
Central Roskilde lingerie boutique specialising in comfortable, well-fitted underwear, nightwear and swimwear with personal fitting service on busy Algade.
Feelfash
3.4 km
Intimate fashion boutique on Roskilde’s Algade, blending Danish street style with occasion-ready looks in a compact, curated setting.
Hos Simone
3.4 km
Cosy mother‑and‑daughter women’s boutique on Roskilde’s main street, offering wearable Scandinavian style, fair prices and warmly personal, small‑town service.
Rud & Vester
3.4 km
A polished men’s clothing boutique on Roskilde’s main street, blending Scandinavian smart-casual style with attentive, old-school service.
Lili-Marleen
3.4 km
A colourful Roskilde boutique where rockabilly swing dresses, gala gowns and vintage-inspired accessories outfit every generation for life’s most festive moments.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
RUCbar - café & bar
2.3 km
Student-run café-bar at Roskilde University’s Student House, serving affordable drinks and coffee in a relaxed campus hangout from lunchtime into the evening.
Mulligans Irish Pub
3.3 km
Authentic Irish pub in two storeys with live music, craft beers, and vibrant social atmosphere in central Roskilde.
Copé Lounge
3.3 km
Urban lounge bar by Roskilde’s main square, blending backyard summer vibes, easygoing cocktails and cosy Danish hygge late into the night.
Klosterkælderen
3.3 km
Roskilde's premier craft beer cellar with 200+ beers and authentic Danish pub charm.
Georges Bodega
3.4 km
Old-school Danish bodega at Roskilde’s Hestetorvet, pouring cold beer from morning to late night with indoor smoking, local regulars and station-square views.
Teatercaféen
3.4 km
Unpretentious local beer hall in Roskilde where everyday life, cheap drinks and warm conversation matter more than design or trends.
Gustav Wieds - Byens Ølbar
3.5 km
Craft-focused neighbourhood beer bar in central Roskilde, combining eight rotating taps, a cosy wooden interior, jukebox tunes and billiards in a relaxed local atmosphere.
PROP Vin og Tapasbar
3.6 km
Intimate Roskilde wine bar pairing curated bottles with Mediterranean-inspired tapas in a candlelit room and sheltered courtyard, strictly for a relaxed 25+ crowd.
Gullanden
3.6 km
An unpretentious Roskilde pub with darts, DJ nights, cold beer and a loyal local crowd, where evenings stretch easily into the early hours.
PAUSE
3.7 km
Intimate wine and beer bar in Roskilde's historic center, celebrating Nordic hospitality and craft beverages.
Ruder Konge Bodega
3.7 km
A timeworn Danish bodega in central Roskilde, offering cheap beer, pool tables and unpretentious pub life just off the city’s main pedestrian street.
28 Live
3.9 km
A lively “youth club for adults” in central Roskilde, blending bar, games, live shows, sport and nightclub energy under one sociable roof.
Charlie Chaplin
4.3 km
An unfussy neighbourhood bar in Roskilde, Charlie Chaplin pours cold beers and warm conversation in a relaxed local bodega setting far from the city’s tourist crowds.
Roskilde Bodega
4.6 km
Classic Danish corner bar on Holbækvej with pool, darts, slot machines and a lively local crowd, offering an unpolished, authentic bodega atmosphere from day to late night.
Vinbaren Muicon
4.7 km
An intimate wine bar in Roskilde’s Musicon district, pairing cozy Nordic warmth with a curated wine list and relaxed, conversation-friendly vibes.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Garbos Roskilde
3.5 km
Cozy neighborhood nightclub in central Roskilde, blending casual bar vibes with a compact dance floor and late-night weekend energy on Hersegade.
Dansebar Roskilde
3.6 km
Roskilde's premier multi-floor nightclub with dual dance spaces, three bars, and DJ-driven energy until dawn.
Danseriet
4.0 km
Frivilligdrevet danseklub i Roskilde med stort dansegulv, livebands og hyggelig stemning for danseglade gæster på tværs af aldre og niveauer.
Klubhuset
6.1 km
Low-key local clubhouse turned disco-style nightspot, where a simple bar, small dance floor and regulars’ vibe create relaxed, unpretentious nights in Roskilde.
Tropicana DC
6.1 km
Compact Latin-flavoured nightclub on Roskilde’s industrial edge, delivering loud beats, simple drinks and a late-night dancefloor focused purely on partying.
Den Dansende Viking
12.2 km
High-energy suburban nightclub in Egedal Centret, serving packed dance floors, late-night DJ sets and budget-friendly drinks for party-focused weekends.
The Flame
24.1 km
Compact, high-energy nightclub by Køge’s harbor, serving up youthful beats, live acts and weekend dance-floor vibes in an intimate, no-frills setting.
LUSIO
24.1 km
Compact harbor-side nightclub in Køge with late Friday hours, a tight dance floor, and an intimate, no‑frills setting for Danish weekend nights out.
Bloom Nightclub
24.1 km
Late-night harborfront beats and a compact dance floor bring big-night energy to small-city Køge every Friday and Saturday.
Falafelberg
26.3 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Frederiksberg at Falafelberg, a night club offering delicious falafel and electrifying music for an unforgettable experience.
Haven - Events
26.3 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Haven, Frederiksberg's top night club, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
Afrobeat Palace Nightclub
26.6 km
Discover the energetic Afrobeat Palace Nightclub in Copenhagen, where music, dance, and multicultural vibes unite for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
The Union
27.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Union, Copenhagen's premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable experience.
Vela Lesbian Lgbtq+ NightClub
27.9 km
Experience the inclusive spirit and vibrant nightlife at Vela Lesbian LGBTQ+ Nightclub in Copenhagen, where every night is a celebration of love and diversity.
KB3
28.0 km
Discover the pulse of Copenhagen's nightlife at KB3, a lively night club in Vesterbro offering unforgettable music and vibrant experiences.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Adventurous
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Skyline
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Scenic Backdrops
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Low Impact
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
